Mumbai, Maharashtra (India), August 4: Actor Allu Arjun has expressed his profound sadness over the devastating landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district and has committed to supporting the rehabilitation efforts. On Instagram, Allu Arjun shared a heartfelt message alongside a donation pledge to the Kerala Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
The post read: “I am deeply saddened by the recent landslide in Wayanad. Kerala has always given me so much love, and I want to do my bit by donating ₹25 lakh to the Kerala CM Relief Fund to support the rehabilitation work. Praying for your safety and strength.” He added in his post, “Praying for the safety and strength of the people of Kerala.”
The catastrophic landslides on July 30, which struck Chooralmala and Mundakkai in Wayanad, have resulted in a staggering loss of 308 lives. The scale of the disaster has prompted a massive response, with search and rescue operations continuing into their sixth day.
Wayanad District Collector Meghashree provided an update on the rescue efforts, stating that more than 1,300 personnel, including volunteers, have been deployed to assist with the ongoing operations. She mentioned that precautions are being taken to prevent any further mishaps, following reports of volunteers getting stranded during the rescue operations.
In addition to local efforts, the Indian Air Force has airlifted advanced radar equipment to expedite search operations. On Saturday, the Indian Coast Guard, Indian Army, and Indian Air Force successfully rescued three individuals who were stranded at Soochipara Waterfalls, another area affected by the landslides.
The Kerala Chief Minister’s Office has implemented night patrolling in the affected areas to prevent unauthorized entry and ensure the safety of the ongoing rescue operations. The CM’s office has warned against trespassing in the areas affected by the landslides without proper police permission, to avoid hindering rescue efforts.
As of the latest update, the death toll from the landslides stands at 308. Kerala Health Minister Veena George reported that 215 bodies and 143 body parts have been recovered, with a detailed post-mortem having been completed on 212 bodies and 140 body parts. So far, 148 of the deceased have been identified by their relatives.